TITLE:
Phytochemical Characterization of Anti Gastric Ulcer Properties of Aqueous Leaf Extract of Dacryodes edulis (Plum Leaf)
AUTHORS:
Gillian Nkeudem Asoba, Fidelis Sameh Ebong, Aristide Guillaume Silapeux Kamda, Nkongchu Briget, Metuge Samuel, Irene Ule Ngole Sumbele
KEYWORDS:
Dacryodes edulis, Phytochemicals, Anti-Gastric Ulcer, Traditional Uses
JOURNAL NAME:
Journal of Biosciences and Medicines,
Vol.14 No.2,
February
11,
2026
ABSTRACT: In Cameroon, the study of traditional medicine and treatment by plants is of particular interest. This country is known for the diversity of its climate, the nature of its soil and the wealth of its medicinal flora. Dacryodes edulis (plum) a versatile plant in African ethno medicine is rich in nutrients such as lipids, vitamins and proteins. Its various parts are employed to treat several diseases especially in traditional medicine for the treatment of ailments such as Skin diseases, dysentery, and Leprosy. Generally, the study sought to assess the phytochemical characterisation of anti-gastric Ulcer Properties of aqueous leaf extract of Dacryodes edulis and specifically sought to extract the active component of Dacryodes edulis, screen aqueous leaf extract of Dacryodes edulis for secondary metabolites and to evaluate the antioxidant activity (in vitro) of aqueous leaf extract of Dacryodes edulis. The research design used was experimentation (in vitro). The extraction yield of the extract of D. edulis is 10% in milligram obtained by decoction. The current study revealed through phytochemical screening and the study of some antioxidant properties, antiulcer activity and the reactions of characterization to identify the chemical constituents of Dacryodes edulis showed that it contains polyphenols; flavonoids and tannins which existed in significant amount (p Dacryodes edulis showed a significant radical scavenging capacity effect (IC50 25.03 ± 0.71 µg/ml 2.76 ± 0.45 µg/ml) for DPPH and iron III (Fe3+) respectively indicating that it is good antioxidant agent. These anti-oxidant properties are related to the presence of secondary metabolites detected in the plant. This justifies the traditional usage of the leaves and seeds as remedy for stomach problems and their prevention.